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What is a Hidden Addiction?

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Addiction has been described in countless ways, and it can also show up in our life or the life of a loved one in countless ways. Sometimes addiction shows up front and center, out in the open, with visual clues like empty glass bottles, the residue of crushed pills, or sudden, unexplainable absences. Other times, addiction does not leave many clues and is much harder to see; this is considered a hidden addiction. The purpose of this blog is to explore what is a hidden addiction, the impact of a hidden addiction, and what to watch for if you suspect someone in your life has a hidden addiction.

What is a Hidden Addiction?

The National Institute on Drug Abuse defines addiction as a “chronic disease characterized by drug seeking and use that is compulsive, or difficult to control, despite harmful consequences.” The difference between a hidden addiction is that the person experiencing it may go to great lengths to hide their substance use or behavior, usually to avoid judgment or social or professional consequences.

What Are Some Examples of a Hidden Addiction?

Some examples of hidden addiction include excessive alcohol or misuse that might be disguised as “social drinking,” excessive prescription medication use explained as “medically necessary,” or even behavioral addictions like gambling, which is sometimes described as “the hidden addiction” because it does not present the same physical symptoms as many other substance use disorders (SUDs).

What is the Impact of Hidden Addiction?

Hidden addiction can have tremendous consequences on the person experiencing it, as well as their relationships, work, and financial well-being. Addiction in any form is bad for a person’s health, and many of the same symptoms appear over time with a hidden addiction. With hidden addiction, there are often symptoms of guilt and shame resulting from the emotional toll of hiding the addiction. Trust is usually eroded in interpersonal and family relationships due to secrecy. Hidden addiction often results in poor work performance, even if a person manages to keep it a secret for a while.

Recognizing a Hidden Addiction

If you suspect a loved one has a hidden addiction, here are some signs to watch for:

Behavioral 

  • Secrecy or isolation
  • Withdrawing from family or friend activities
  • Neglecting responsibilities and declining work or school performance

Physical 

  • Change in appearance, such as weight changes or neglecting personal grooming
  • Unexplained, frequent health issues or fatigue

Psychological 

  • Mood swings
  • Increased irritability or anxiety

Social 

  • Sudden increased need for money that is unexplained
  • Driving under the influence

Talking About a Hidden Addiction with a Loved One

It can feel scary if you suspect a loved one may have a hidden addiction, but here are a few things that might help. Try to create a nonjudgemental space and encourage openness. You may need to try this multiple times in multiple ways, but your loved one might be willing and even relieved to discuss their struggle with you. Encourage the value of professional help, such as therapy, addiction counseling, or other inpatient or outpatient treatment options. Try to destigmatize substance use treatment and use person-first language. (An example of person-first language is describing someone as “a person with a substance use disorder” as opposed to a “substance abuser”).

Southern Sky Recovery and Addiction

Recovery and a life of sobriety are possible with the right treatment programs. Our caring and empathetic staff at Southern Sky Recovery understand addiction and have helped many people through it. We also know that every individual and every story of addiction is unique and that treatment requires a personal, individually tailored approach. No matter where you or your loved one are on your path to recovery, we want you to call us today to discuss how we can help.

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Sierra Bothwell

Counselor

Sierra is a dedicated addictions counselor passionate about helping individuals navigate recovery and build more stable, fulfilling lives. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health from Seton Hill University and an Associate’s degree in Human Services with a certificate in Addiction Studies from Allegany College of Maryland. She is currently pursuing her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Capella University and holds her ADC-IP credential in South Carolina, working toward full ADC credentialing and LPC licensure.

Sierra has experience across detox, residential, and outpatient levels of care, providing both group and individual support. She uses a client-centered, evidence-based approach to help clients build self-awareness, develop coping skills, and apply what they learn in treatment to everyday life. She is especially passionate about working with individuals who are motivated for change but feel stuck, helping them create practical, personalized paths to recovery.

Originally from West Virginia, Sierra relocated to South Carolina in 2024. Outside of work, she enjoys coffee shops, farmers’ markets, beach days, reading, and exploring with her dachshund, Cooper.

Peter Bean

Licensed Physician Assistant

Peter Bean Licensed Physician Assistant Peter Bean was born and raised in Falls Church, Virginia, and graduated with a B.S. in Biology at the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia. During college he enjoyed volunteering as an EMT at the local fire department and playing on the College’s rugby team. He moved to the Charlotte suburbs in order to study at Wingate University, and he graduated with a Masters of Science in Physician Assistant Studies in 2021. He spent the first couple years of his career doing general psychiatry before specializing in Addiction Medicine and has been working with Dr. Emmel since 2024. Peter currently resides in South Carolina along with his wife, 2 children, 2 dogs, and 3 chickens. Other hobbies (as time allows) include riding his motorcycle and helping with his family’s pepper garden.

Pam Deloach

Care Coordinator/CPRS

Pam is a Peer Support Specialist with Southern Sky, dedicated to supporting individuals on their recovery journeys with compassion, understanding, and hope. Born and raised in Hampton, South Carolina, Pam is a proud mother of two amazing boys, ages 20 and 10. She has always been drawn to work that helps others, spending 20 years as a massage therapist before beginning her own journey through recovery. Inspired by her experiences, Pam chose to use her story, strength, and insight to walk alongside others who are struggling with addiction.

In her free time, Pam enjoys going to the lake, spending time with family and friends, attending church, and cheering on her son at his baseball games. These moments keep her grounded and remind her of the joy in everyday life. She is committed to empowering individuals, building trust, and creating a safe, supportive environment for healing and growth.

Ben LaGrange

Community Relations Advocate

Ben is a person in long-term recovery with a gift for creativity, a deep connection with people, and a passion for helping others find their path to sobriety. After getting sober in 2018, he discovered that authenticity was the greatest gift he could offer. Embracing it brought genuine connection, creative freedom, and a beautiful life in recovery.

With experience in multimedia, fine art, and digital design, Ben studied photography at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and art at the Savannah College of Art and Design. He has spent years working as a professional photographer and marketer. He has also worked in recreational and art therapy for substance use treatment and has led educational groups on anger management and relapse prevention.

Ben believes that connection is the opposite of addiction—and that when we allow ourselves to be fully authentic, we become our most powerful selves, capable of deeper connection and better equipped to help others navigate a turbulent world.

Keith Toomer

Residential House Manager

Keith began his career in the maintenance and plumbing industry, where he built hands-on experience and a strong work ethic. During that time, he faced significant challenges with addiction. His decision to seek help led him to Southern Sky Recovery in Bluffton, South Carolina—an experience that transformed his life.

Through the support of Southern Sky Recovery, Keith rebuilt his foundation and discovered his true passion: serving others on their recovery journeys. He was given the opportunity to become the Men’s Residential House Manager, a role that allows him to guide, support, and mentor men as they work toward lasting recovery.

“For the first time in my life, I found a career that truly fulfills me. I love working in addiction recovery and being part of a community dedicated to helping others heal and grow.”

Outside of work, Keith enjoys spending quality time with his family. He remains committed to his own recovery and has a strong interest in nutrition and exercise, which help him stay grounded, healthy, and focused.

He is grateful every day for the opportunity to serve his community and work in a field that gives his life purpose.

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